A social media joke about buying an airline has evolved into a fast-moving online campaign drawing millions in pledged support.

The idea, launched by TikTok creator Hunter Peterson, has continued to gain traction, with reported pledges now exceeding $26 million as participation surged over the weekend.

Viral concept gains momentum across platforms

Peterson introduced the concept in a TikTok video, suggesting that a fraction of U.S. adults contributing the cost of a low-budget airline ticket could collectively purchase Spirit Airlines.

The post quickly spread, approaching three million views and driving a wave of traffic to a website built to capture interest in the proposal.

Search activity around the campaign spiked sharply as the idea circulated online.

Pledge totals rise with growing participation

Figures displayed on the campaign site indicated that close to 40,000 people had registered interest.

Total pledges were reported at roughly $26.5 million, though the numbers have not been independently verified.

Organizers emphasized that these commitments are non-binding and do not involve actual payments.

Website struggles under heavy demand

The surge in attention created technical issues, with the original site going offline after being overwhelmed by visitors.

Peterson later said the platform had been built quickly and required upgrades, while directing users to social media accounts for updates.

He also issued a public call for developers, legal experts, and public relations support as interest expanded.

Community ownership model outlined

The proposal centers on a structure where participants would each have one vote, regardless of the size of their pledge.